Despite lockdowns been implemented in most African states, there has been a continuous rise in infection rates as well as a persistent decline in economic activities which has seen many responsive governments initiate social welfare relief packages.
Lockdowns in Africa without an exit strategy is not sustainable and could eventually have a retrogressive impact on the general health and economic well-being of states.
SOUTH AFRICA’S EXIT STRATEGY
South Africa initiated an exit strategy that will come into effect May 1st, 2020. These strategies comprise of 5 levels of alert systems that will inform the government on what risk adjustment measures to be taken.
In a statement issued by the South African Government, President Ramaphosa said; “Level 5 means that drastic measures are required to contain the spread of the virus to save lives”.
“Level 4 means that some activity can be allowed to resume subject to extreme precautions required to limit community transmission and outbreaks”.
“Level 3 involves the easing of some restrictions, including on work and social activities, to address a high risk of transmission”.
“Level 2 involves the further easing of restrictions, but the maintenance of physical distancing and restrictions on some leisure and social activities to prevent a resurgence of the virus”.
“Level 1 means that most normal activity can resume, with precautions and health guidelines followed at all times”.
These levels will be implemented in such a way that at all times different alert levels could be in place in different parts of the country to ensure a targeted response to this global health pandemic.
President Ramaphosa clarified the present alert level in place when he said “We are currently at Level 5, which requires a full national lockdown to contain the spread of the virus”. This is the highest level of lockdown and was imposed when drastic action was necessary to curb transmission”.
Africa Online News 
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